Massachusetts § 21 - Petition to mayor and aldermen or selectmen

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 21 — Petition to mayor and aldermen or selectmen, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 21. Petition to mayor and aldermen or selectmen

Section 21. If the land mentioned in section fifteen lies entirely in one town, the petition may be made to the mayor and aldermen or selectmen thereof, who shall proceed thereon in all respects as above provided for county commissioners, except that they need not give notice to their town. Such petition shall be filed in the office of the town clerk before proceedings are had thereon; and the petition with the order thereon shall be recorded in said office within two months after the order has been made.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 21

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 21 cover?

Section 21 ("Petition to mayor and aldermen or selectmen") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 21?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 21" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 21 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.